Student biologists team up with Shedd Aquarium to conduct hands-on research in Bahamas

Four North Central College biology majors recently took part in an ongoing research project in the Bahamas at Exuma Cays Land and Sea Park.

Through a partnership between Shedd Aquarium and the Associated Colleges of the Chicago Area, 2016 graduates Amanda Williams, Hannah Magiera and Marie Butnariu and Elizabeth Thrun ’17 were offered the opportunity to study marine ecosystems and conservation projects. As preparation, they completed an upper-level course in marine and island ecology at Shedd during spring term.    

On their nine-day venture in the Bahamas aboard a research vessel, students gained hands-on experience in field research working with Rebecca Gericke, the aquarium’s manager of conservation and research programs, and a postdoctoral research associate.

Their stories were featured in two media publications, the Daily Herald and The Naperville Sun/Chicago Tribune, and were so compelling that we wanted to share them with you.

Click here to read the Daily Herald feature and click here to read the Tribune story.  

Below are some shared images of their experiences.